Kayaking the Na Pali Coast

With its rugged green cliffs, waterfalls, sea caves, and remote white sandy beaches, the Na Pali Coast is arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Perhaps one of the most adventurous ways to soak in the 17 miles of stunning scenery is by kayak. In fact in the March/April 2000 issue of National Geographic’s Adventure magazine, it rated America’s top 100 adventure trips and kayaking the Na Pali coast was rated the second best adventure. (Rafting the Colorado River at the Grand Canyon was number one.) That’s a hefty adventure endorsement!

If you are interested in kayaking the Na Pali Coast, now is the time to do it. The water is usually calm enough from late-May through mid-September. If you are experienced at sea kayaking, you can rent a kayak and go at your own pace including a night of camping. Even if you are an experienced kayaker, be aware that this trip is often called the “Mount Everest of Sea Kayaking”.

The average tourist is most likely not going to be an experienced kayaker and if you fall into that category, don’t worry, there are guided day tours. The tours cost around $200 plus taxes, fees, and gratuity. The tour companies provide you with the equipment, lunch, and expert guidance. Before you book, make sure that you find out if the guides are sanctioned by the State and if they carry safety gear like flares and radios. Also, if possible try to stop by the tour company’s office and take a look at the equipment and see if you can to gauge the attitude of the company personnel. If you have a happy guide, you are more likely to enjoy your tour.

The kayaks launch from the North Shore and travel from North to South, one way only. (Thank goodness you don’t have to paddle back!) Your tour company will provide transportation back to the company store at the end of the tour. Since the tour takes all day, the tours generally start around 6 a.m. One suggestion in choosing a tour company is the convenience to your hotel. For example, if you are staying on the North shore, it would be more practical to choose a company out of the North Shore.

I’ve gone to the experts, a couple of Na Pali coast tour companies, to get the lowdown on guided tours. Here are some of the key questions and answers to consider before you go:

Do I need to be an experienced kayaker and/or ironman competitor in order to kayak the Na Pali coast?

Kayak Kauai says, “We pride on taking all kinds of people down the coast. You don’t have to be a jock. The common denominator is that you are at home in the water and like this kind of adventure.” Outfitters Kauai put it this way, “Although this tour is best enjoyed by people who are physically fit and have some basic paddling experience, first time kayakers may participate if they are athletically inclined and quick to learn new sports.”

Do I need to be an excellent swimmer?

You don’t have to be a great swimmer, but you do need to be able to swim and be comfortable in the water. You will be wearing a life vest.

What if I am prone to sea sickness?

Both tour companies say that you should not even attempt the tour. The Outfitters Kauai web site says this,” If you feel that you may get nauseous, but not severely so, we recommend motion sickness medicine such as Bonine, Dramamine, or Triptone (over the counter).”

Is it likely that I will fall out of the kayak?

Kayak Kauai says, “Falling out is not the norm, but not unheard of. We use sit on top kayaks which are easy enough to get in and out of and a blessing when going in or out of the surf.”

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If you are intrigued about kayaking the Na Pali coast, I’d encourage you to read this interesting National Geographic Adventure magazine article by Todd A. Vines.

Mahalo to Amy at Outfitters Kauai, Ltd and to Micco Godinez of Kayak Kauai for their expert advice!